The National Literacy Trust has announced the launch of a new podcast, ‘The Joy of Books: With Gaby Huddart’ as part of their National Year of Reading campaign. The registered charity, which aims “to empower people with the literacy skills they need to succeed in life”, wants to explore the joy of reading in this new audio medium.
Launched Thursday 15th October, the brand-new podcast will feature celebrity guests alongside the host, discussing the joy of reading, and the books or stories that have shaped their lives. Releasing weekly, the podcast will be hosted by Gaby Huddart; a celebrity interviewer and former editor of Good Housekeeping.
Host, Gaby Huddart said: “What an absolute joy it has been to delve into the books, stories and poems that have shaped the lives of some of the nation’s favourite people during this incredibly special year – the National Year of Reading. At a time when fewer people are reading, this podcast is a reminder of just how essential books can be to our lives. It has been fascinating to hear the precious stories behind the books that have had such a profound impact on the lives of people who have helped shape the cultural landscape of the UK.”
Gaby will be accompanied by some of the best-known names from the worlds of acting, broadcasting, cooking, science, retail and fitness including in the first series: Dame Maggie Aderin, Joe Wicks, Paterson Joseph, Larry Lamb, Sophie Raworth, Monica Galetti and Mary Portas OBE.
A press release from the National Literacy Trust explains, “Guests are invited to share their relationship with reading – from first childhood favourites to the books that offered comfort in difficult times, changed the way guests saw the world, inspired their life choices or simply made them happy.
“Through the personal stories of its guests, The Joy of Books explores how reading can shape our lives – opening-up new worlds, inspiring decisions, offering comfort and companionship, and bringing joy at every stage of life.
“Listeners can also expect to come away from each episode with plenty of reading recommendations to add to their list.”
As well as the weekly episodes, attendees of Wimbledon BookFest can sign up to attend on in-person, live recording of the podcast, with sports broadcaster and author Clare Balding. The first episode of The Joy of Books podcast is available to enjoy now on your favourite streaming or podcast platform or to watch in video form on YouTube. Further episodes will be released every Thursday.
